Metagenomics

Improving the efficiency of metagenomic analysis

Revvity’s streamlined, automated workflow from DNA extraction to sequence ready libraries for 16S and shotgun sequencing resulting in robust data for species identification and functional profiling.

16S sequencing specifically targets and amplifies the 16S rRNA gene, a highly conserved region in microbial genomes. This method provides information about the taxonomic composition of the microbial community, allowing researchers to identify and classify different species present. It is particularly useful for studying the diversity and abundance of bacteria and archaea. 16S sequencing is cost-effective, provides phylogenetic insights, and is preferred when the focus is on understanding the overall structure and composition of the microbial community.

Shotgun sequencing provides a comprehensive genetic profile of a community, enabling functional potential analysis, the discovery of novel organisms and genes, and the identification of specific genes, functional pathways, and potential interactions within complex microbial ecosystems. The workflow typically begins with sample collection and DNA extraction, followed by library preparation where DNA is fragmented, and adapters are ligated. Sequencing is performed on high-throughput platforms like Illumina or Element. After sequencing, data undergoes quality control and preprocessing of raw reads, with optional assembly into contigs. Subsequent steps include taxonomic classification, functional annotation, statistical analysis, and data visualization, all of which provide valuable insights into the functional potential and metabolic activities of microorganisms.

Shotgun sequencing has diverse applications across several fields. In clinical settings, it is used for pathogen detection and comprehensive microbiome analysis. In environmental studies, it aids in understanding microbial communities in soil, water, and air, as well as their roles in ecosystem functions. It also supports agricultural research by analyzing soil health and plant-microbe interactions, and in food safety, it helps detect contaminants and optimize fermentation processes.

Metatranscriptomics is a powerful technique that focuses on studying the active gene expression of microbes within natural environments. Unlike metagenomics, which identifies microbial presence based on genomic content, metatranscriptomics delves into the functional aspects. By analyzing the metatranscriptome, researchers gain insights into which genes are actively expressed, allowing them to understand the functional profile of microbial communities. This approach has applications in fields such as human gut microbiome research, environmental studies, and biotechnology. Overall, metatranscriptomics provides a window into the microbial world, revealing not only who’s there but also what they’re actively doing.

Improve the efficiency of your 16S, shotgun, and metatranscriptomics sequencing workflows with Revvity’s complete, single source workflows.